Build Your Own Toolkit

View by Category

Looking for materials centered around a certain topic? You can browse all the Texas GEAR UP videos by categories tied to college readiness. Just select the topic you're interested in, then you'll be able to explore all the video and print materials relating to that subject.

Download a list of all the Build Your Own Toolkit content

Academic

A sampling of teaching strategies and programs for inside and outside the classroom, with an emphasis on student engagement and academic achievement. Includes observations from students, administrators, teachers and program planners.
Career Exploration

Career exploration connects personal goals with academic achievement. Here is a sampling of programs and outreach materials that can help students understand that a good education turns dreams into reality.
Financial Aid

Just about everyone who wants to go to college can find the help they need to pay for it. These materials cover the nuts and bolts of financial aid, along with stories of students pursing their dreams thanks to grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
GEAR UP Programs

Explore GEAR UP initiatives that are helping students and families prepare for postsecondary success. Project directors, school administrators, counselors and teachers discuss lessons learned that will be of interest to any school district.
Mentoring

Immerse yourself in promising practices and lessons learned in the design, planning and implementation of successful mentoring programs. Videos feature program planners and participants - covering all the different stages of a mentor program.
Parent Involvement

When parents are actively involved in their children's learning, academic achievement rises. Here you will find program models and personal stories of parents and students who know firsthand that active parent involvement makes a difference.

College Readiness

Materials that can help students and parents plan ahead for college success. Includes helpful information about postsecondary options, access and readiness.
Educational Challenges

Strategies for reaching and engaging at-risk youth, including students from poverty and first generation students. Excellent for professional development and group discussion.
First Generation

Materials explore needs and challenges faced by first generation students and the ways teachers and counselors can help. Personal stories of first generation college students reveal keys to academic success.
Spanish

This catalog is a one-stop reference for anyone looking for Spanish language versions of the toolkit videos and print materials.
Teaching Strategies

Teaching strategies, program models, and lessons learned. Excellent resources and discussion starters for administrators, curriculum directors, counselors and teachers.